Occupational Therapist and Physical Therapist Services
Occupational therapy (OT) is a professional health discipline that utilizes the analysis and application of activities specifically related to performance in the areas of self-care, productivity, and leisure. Occupational therapists work to promote, maintain, and develop the skills needed by students to be functional in a school setting. Some examples of these supports my include activities and programming recommendations to support washroom skills, eating and dressing skills, to writing and cutting skills. In addition, our OTs use observation and assessment to provide programming recommendations to support a student's sensory needs. The services provided by the OT in schools may include assessment, consultation, program planning, ad assistance in diagnosis, treatment, and equipment selection/adaptation. OT services are primarily through consultation and may include modelling of interventions for teachers, CEAs, resource teachers and other school staff.
Physiotherapy (PT) is a professional health discipling primarily directed toward the prevention and alleviation of movement dysfunction to promote maximal independence for the student in his or her home, school, and community. The services of the Physical Therapist include assistance in physical positioning to promote optimal physical access, assistance in maximizing independence for students who have limited mobility, and prevention and alleviation of movement dysfunction. The services provided by a physical therapist in schools may include screening, assessment, consultation, program planning, and assistance in diagnosis, treatment, equipment selection/adaptation, administration education and research.
How do school teams access these services?
Through the school-based team process, students may be referred for OT and/or PT support. Students qualify for these services if they:
- have significant physical or sensory-motor limitations that impact their activity and participation at school. This is determined by the physical or occupational therapist in consultation with the school-based team.
- have significant physical or sensory-motor limitations that impact their activity and participation at school. This is determined by the physical or occupational therapist in consultation with the school-based team.
What are the qualifications of an OT and PT?
Occupational Therapists and Physical Therapists:
- hold a Bachelor or Masters degree from a university Physiotherapy or Occupational Therapy program
- are registered with the College of Physical Therapists of BC and/or the College of Occupational Therapists of BC
How is the service provided?
Physical Therapist and Occupational Therapists may:
- assess the impact of a student’s disability on school performance
- work in collaboration with members of the school team to develop and implement a student's Individual Education Plan
- interpret medical information and the educational implications
- train staff in the use of specialized equipment, back care and proper techniques for lifting and handling students
- recommend specialized equipment, modifications. or adaptations to promote participation and the highest level of independence in school, home and community settings
- work with teachers, support staff and parents to provide programs that enhance the fine and gross motor function of students with disabilities
- facilitate referrals to appropriate community and medical services
- recommend adaptations or modifications to optimize participation in physical education programs
- assist with transitions into kindergarten, through middle and secondary school and to adult services
Occupational Therapy Services.pdf